2027 Cohort
The Global Leaders Institute welcomes the 2027 Cohort of its Global Arts MBA – 100 distinguished cultural professionals selected from over 1,000 applications across 94 countries. Chosen for their leadership, vision, and capacity to shape the future of the creative sector, the 2027 Global Arts MBA Cohort brings a striking diversity of industry experience, representing 57 countries. Their roles span founders, museum directors, conductors, choreographers, and cultural policy strategists – to principal dancers, composers, filmmakers, publishers, and award-winning photographers. Follow this remarkable group as they embark on a year of career-shaping growth, applied learning, and international field exchanges.
Members of the 2027 Global Arts MBA Cohort represent Afghanistan, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Republic of the Congo, Cuba, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ethiopia, Finland, France, Gabon, Germany, Ghana, Hungary, Iceland, India, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, South Korea, Kuwait, Lebanon, Mexico, Namibia, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Niger, Nigeria, Oman, Peru, the Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, Trinidad and Tobago, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States, Uruguay, and Venezuela.
Global MBA Cohort
Grace M. Alexander
Knapweed Performing Arts Festival
Grace Alexander
United States, Canada, Iceland
Knapweed Performing Arts Festival
Founder, Artistic Director, Violinist
American violinist Grace M. Alexander is Founder & Artistic Director of Knapweed Performing Arts Festival. Her work bridges violin performance, interdisciplinary artistry, and environmental stewardship. Alexander also provides musical and administrative leadership to EarthStory (USA), Við Djúpið Music Festival (ISL), Allegra Chamber Orchestra (CAN), and forest conservation initiatives in Northwest Montana.
Knapweed Performing Arts Festival
Founder, Artistic Director, Violinist
American violinist Grace M. Alexander is Founder & Artistic Director of Knapweed Performing Arts Festival. Her work bridges violin performance, interdisciplinary artistry, and environmental stewardship. Alexander also provides musical and administrative leadership to EarthStory (USA), Við Djúpið Music Festival (ISL), Allegra Chamber Orchestra (CAN), and forest conservation initiatives in Northwest Montana.
Joao Alvares Abreu
Netherlands Radio Philharmonic Orchestra
Joao Alvares Abreu
Portugal, Netherlands, Switzerland
Netherlands Radio Philharmonic Orchestra
Violist
Portuguese musician João Álvares Abreu is a member of the Netherlands Radio Philharmonic Orchestra and artistic-executive director of the Cidnay Vale do Ave Festival in Portugal. Educated at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam and the Haute École de Musique de Genève, Abreu develops internationally engaged artistic programs combining artistic vision with cultural leadership.
Netherlands Radio Philharmonic Orchestra
Violist
Portuguese musician João Álvares Abreu is a member of the Netherlands Radio Philharmonic Orchestra and artistic-executive director of the Cidnay Vale do Ave Festival in Portugal. Educated at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam and the Haute École de Musique de Genève, Abreu develops internationally engaged artistic programs combining artistic vision with cultural leadership.
Belinda Ang
We Are Artery
Belinda Ang
Singapore
We Are Artery
CEO
Singaporean entrepreneur Belinda Ang is CEO of We Are Artery, a Singapore arts nonprofit helping artists pursue sustainable careers through its accelerator program. With over 20 years founding and managing businesses across arts, tech, communications, and entertainment, Ang connects cross-industry knowledge to new applications.
We Are Artery
CEO
Singaporean entrepreneur Belinda Ang is CEO of We Are Artery, a Singapore arts nonprofit helping artists pursue sustainable careers through its accelerator program. With over 20 years founding and managing businesses across arts, tech, communications, and entertainment, Ang connects cross-industry knowledge to new applications.
Ana Aparicio
OAcademy
Ana Aparicio
Venezuela
The Orchestra of the Americas Group
Director of Development
Venezuelan strategist Ana Aparicio is Development and Strategy Manager at The Orchestra of the Americas Group, driving partnerships and fundraising. Aparicio is committed to expanding access to the arts and shaping the next generation of cultural leaders worldwide.
The Orchestra of the Americas Group
Director of Development
Venezuelan strategist Ana Aparicio is Development and Strategy Manager at The Orchestra of the Americas Group, driving partnerships and fundraising. Aparicio is committed to expanding access to the arts and shaping the next generation of cultural leaders worldwide.
Anna Arabindan-Kesson
Princeton University
Anna Arabindan-Kesson
Australia, Sri Lanka, United States
Princeton University
Professor
Anna Arabindan-Kesson is a Professor at Princeton University. Educated at Yale University and born in Sri-Lanka, she previously worked in Australia and New Zealand before turning to academia. An award-winning authority on African Diaspora art, she also directs Art Hx, a research platform examining art's intersection with medicine.
Princeton University
Professor
Anna Arabindan-Kesson is a Professor at Princeton University. Educated at Yale University and born in Sri-Lanka, she previously worked in Australia and New Zealand before turning to academia. An award-winning authority on African Diaspora art, she also directs Art Hx, a research platform examining art's intersection with medicine.
Aldo Arce
United Nations
Aldo Arce
Mexico, United States
United Nations
Partnerships Specialist
Aldo Arce is Partnerships Specialist at the United Nations. Winner of the UN Intercultural Innovation Award, Arce has partnered globally to fund arts, culture, and youth-led creative projects, working as a fundraiser, project manager, and marketing specialist advancing intercultural understanding.
United Nations
Partnerships Specialist
Aldo Arce is Partnerships Specialist at the United Nations. Winner of the UN Intercultural Innovation Award, Arce has partnered globally to fund arts, culture, and youth-led creative projects, working as a fundraiser, project manager, and marketing specialist advancing intercultural understanding.
Sahar Assaf
Synaptric Consulting
Sahar Assaf
Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates
Synaptric Consulting
Co-founder & Managing Director
Lebanese theatre artist Sahar Assaf is the Managing Director of Synaptric Consulting, a cultural strategy firm. She is International Programs Lead at Golden Thread Productions, where she previously served as Executive Artistic Director. Her multidisciplinary practice spans documentary and site-specific performance, alongside a wide range of theatrical forms. She is also a mama.
Synaptric Consulting
Co-founder & Managing Director
Lebanese theatre artist Sahar Assaf is the Managing Director of Synaptric Consulting, a cultural strategy firm. She is International Programs Lead at Golden Thread Productions, where she previously served as Executive Artistic Director. Her multidisciplinary practice spans documentary and site-specific performance, alongside a wide range of theatrical forms. She is also a mama.
Clara Asumadu
ChiByDesign
Clara Asumadu
Ghana, United States
ChiByDesign
Senior Service Designer
Ghanaian designer Clara Asumadu is Senior Service Designer at ChiByDesign, using participatory research and design to drive meaningful change in government policy and services. Asumadu also founded Aya Damé, bridging experiential design with strategy.
ChiByDesign
Senior Service Designer
Ghanaian designer Clara Asumadu is Senior Service Designer at ChiByDesign, using participatory research and design to drive meaningful change in government policy and services. Asumadu also founded Aya Damé, bridging experiential design with strategy.
Christian Bachmann
Deutsche Radio Philharmonie
Christian Bachmann
Germany, France, Netherlands
Deutsche Radio Philharmonie
Dramaturg
Christian Bachmann is a dramaturg and artistic planner at the Deutsche Radio Philharmonie. A trained music educator who also works as a concert host and speaker, Christian focuses on fostering meaningful connections between classical music and contemporary society.
Deutsche Radio Philharmonie
Dramaturg
Christian Bachmann is a dramaturg and artistic planner at the Deutsche Radio Philharmonie. A trained music educator who also works as a concert host and speaker, Christian focuses on fostering meaningful connections between classical music and contemporary society.
Simone Batiste
Laolu Collective
Simone Batiste
United States
Laolu Collective
Creative Director
American creative strategist Simone Pierre Batiste is Creative Director of Laolu Collective, and previously served as Assistant Director of Core Programs at the Jackie Robinson Foundation. Born and raised in Oakland, CA, and educated in Behavioral Neuroscience at the University of San Diego, Pierre Batiste is passionate about amplifying underrepresented voices through culture, community, and collective transformation.
Laolu Collective
Creative Director
American creative strategist Simone Pierre Batiste is Creative Director of Laolu Collective, and previously served as Assistant Director of Core Programs at the Jackie Robinson Foundation. Born and raised in Oakland, CA, and educated in Behavioral Neuroscience at the University of San Diego, Pierre Batiste is passionate about amplifying underrepresented voices through culture, community, and collective transformation.
Ashanti Bennett
Cool Spring Downtown District
Ashanti Bennett
United States
Cool Spring Downtown District
President & CEO
Ashanti Bennett is President and CEO of Cool Spring Downtown District, the arts and entertainment district in historic downtown Fayetteville, North Carolina. Her work focuses on the transformative power of storytelling through arts and culture.
Cool Spring Downtown District
President & CEO
Ashanti Bennett is President and CEO of Cool Spring Downtown District, the arts and entertainment district in historic downtown Fayetteville, North Carolina. Her work focuses on the transformative power of storytelling through arts and culture.
Garrett Blaize
Appalachian Community Fund
Garrett Blaize
United States
Appalachian Community Fund
Executive Director
American civic leader Garrett Blaize is Executive Director of the Appalachian Community Fund and an Advancement Strategist with Appalshop. Blaize's work strengthens cultural infrastructure and philanthropic strategy for community-rooted institutions navigating climate disruption and regional transition.
Appalachian Community Fund
Executive Director
American civic leader Garrett Blaize is Executive Director of the Appalachian Community Fund and an Advancement Strategist with Appalshop. Blaize's work strengthens cultural infrastructure and philanthropic strategy for community-rooted institutions navigating climate disruption and regional transition.
Małgorzata Borkowska
Warsaw National Philharmonic
Małgorzata Borkowska
Poland
Warsaw National Philharmonic
Deputy Director
Polish cultural executive Małgorzata Borkowska is Deputy Director of the National Museum in Warsaw and will join the National Philharmonic in Warsaw as Deputy Director in 2026. A lawyer and internal auditor by training, she specializes in strategic planning, partnership development, communications, and education, bringing together experience across the visual and performing arts.
Warsaw National Philharmonic
Deputy Director
Polish cultural executive Małgorzata Borkowska is Deputy Director of the National Museum in Warsaw and will join the National Philharmonic in Warsaw as Deputy Director in 2026. A lawyer and internal auditor by training, she specializes in strategic planning, partnership development, communications, and education, bringing together experience across the visual and performing arts.
Shurvone Brathwaite
Ministry of Education
Shurvone Brathwaite
Trinidad and Tobago
Ministry of Education
Teacher
Trinidadian-Tobagonian musician Shurvone Brathwaite is Principal Musician with the National Philharmonic Orchestra of Trinidad and Tobago and a teacher with the Ministry of Education. Brathwaite is a dedicated community leader with extensive academic and professional training experience.
Ministry of Education
Teacher
Trinidadian-Tobagonian musician Shurvone Brathwaite is Principal Musician with the National Philharmonic Orchestra of Trinidad and Tobago and a teacher with the Ministry of Education. Brathwaite is a dedicated community leader with extensive academic and professional training experience.
Bogdan Brkic
IMZ International Music + Media Centre
Bogdan Brkic
Austria, Serbia
IMZ International Music + Media Centre
Chief Communications Officer
Austrian communications leader Bogdan Brkic is Chief Communications Officer at the IMZ International Music + Media Centre, where he leads the organization's global communications strategy and editorial output. Educated at the University of Vienna, Brkic has built a career spanning journalism, cultural advocacy, and institutional communications focused on performing arts and public access to culture.
IMZ International Music + Media Centre
Chief Communications Officer
Austrian communications leader Bogdan Brkic is Chief Communications Officer at the IMZ International Music + Media Centre, where he leads the organization's global communications strategy and editorial output. Educated at the University of Vienna, Brkic has built a career spanning journalism, cultural advocacy, and institutional communications focused on performing arts and public access to culture.
Cathleen Carr
newportFILM
Cathleen Carr
United States, Ireland
newportFILM
Executive Director
American nonprofit leader Cathleen Carr is Executive Director of newportFILM. Her work spans documentary film, creative placemaking, arts education, sustainability, and youth development, with leadership experience across Rhode Island, New York City, Boston, and Chicago.
newportFILM
Executive Director
American nonprofit leader Cathleen Carr is Executive Director of newportFILM. Her work spans documentary film, creative placemaking, arts education, sustainability, and youth development, with leadership experience across Rhode Island, New York City, Boston, and Chicago.
Jaeyoung Chong
McGill University
Jaeyoung Chong
South Korea, Canada
McGill University
Doctoral Candidate
South Korean-Canadian cellist Jaeyoung Chong is a doctoral candidate at McGill University. Chong's work explores electroacoustic practices, integrating live electronics into performance, with a focus on performer-centered improvisation that expands the cello's expressive possibilities.
McGill University
Doctoral Candidate
South Korean-Canadian cellist Jaeyoung Chong is a doctoral candidate at McGill University. Chong's work explores electroacoustic practices, integrating live electronics into performance, with a focus on performer-centered improvisation that expands the cello's expressive possibilities.
Syneva Colle Hernandez
Kansas State University
Syneva Colle Hernandez
United States
Kansas State University
Professor of Cello
British-Guatemalan cellist Syneva Colle Hernández is Professor of Cello and String Education at Kansas State University and Artistic Director of Chamber Music Kansas. A multi-instrumentalist, composer, and entrepreneur, Colle Hernández is passionate about making music accessible to all.
Kansas State University
Professor of Cello
British-Guatemalan cellist Syneva Colle Hernández is Professor of Cello and String Education at Kansas State University and Artistic Director of Chamber Music Kansas. A multi-instrumentalist, composer, and entrepreneur, Colle Hernández is passionate about making music accessible to all.
Therese Cruz
Visual Arts Nova Scotia
Therese Cruz
Philippines, Canada
Visual Arts Nova Scotia
Executive Director
Filipino-Canadian arts leader Therese Cruz is Executive Director of Visual Arts Nova Scotia. Cruz helps artists gain exposure and advocates on their behalf, and serves as a Councillor for the Town of Shelburne, with a passion for fostering local economies and community building through the arts.
Visual Arts Nova Scotia
Executive Director
Filipino-Canadian arts leader Therese Cruz is Executive Director of Visual Arts Nova Scotia. Cruz helps artists gain exposure and advocates on their behalf, and serves as a Councillor for the Town of Shelburne, with a passion for fostering local economies and community building through the arts.
Carmen Delgado
El Sistema USA
Carmen Delgado
Venezuela, United States
El Sistema USA
Communications Manager
Venezuelan communications professional and flutist based in the United States. As Communications Manager at El Sistema USA, she combines her background in Social Communication and Marketing with her roots in El Sistema, bridging music, education, and storytelling through her work.
El Sistema USA
Communications Manager
Venezuelan communications professional and flutist based in the United States. As Communications Manager at El Sistema USA, she combines her background in Social Communication and Marketing with her roots in El Sistema, bridging music, education, and storytelling through her work.
Molly Demeulenaere
Unwalled Museum
Molly Demeulenaere
United States, Germany
Unwalled Museum
Founder & CEO
American entrepreneur Molly Demeulenaere is Founder and CEO of Unwalled Museum. Demeulenaere leads mission-driven cultural initiatives integrating exhibitions, education, and creative placemaking to advance artist-centered work grounded in excellence, truth, and an unwavering commitment to curatorial independence.
Unwalled Museum
Founder & CEO
American entrepreneur Molly Demeulenaere is Founder and CEO of Unwalled Museum. Demeulenaere leads mission-driven cultural initiatives integrating exhibitions, education, and creative placemaking to advance artist-centered work grounded in excellence, truth, and an unwavering commitment to curatorial independence.
Christopher Dennis
ODC Dance
Christopher Dennis
Canada, United States, Trinidad and Tobago
ODC Dance
Managing Director
Trinidadian-Canadian arts executive Christopher Dennis is Managing Director of ODC/Dance, bringing over 20 years of leadership experience in international dance. Dennis is also an accomplished lighting designer whose work appears in the repertories of leading ballet companies worldwide.
ODC Dance
Managing Director
Trinidadian-Canadian arts executive Christopher Dennis is Managing Director of ODC/Dance, bringing over 20 years of leadership experience in international dance. Dennis is also an accomplished lighting designer whose work appears in the repertories of leading ballet companies worldwide.
Tonya A. Evans
National Academy for the Performing Arts
Tonya Evans
Trinidad and Tobago
National Academy for the Performing Arts
Stage & Equipment Manager
Trinidadian-Tobagonian practitioner Tonya Evans is Stage and Equipment Manager for the National Academy for the Performing Arts, resident manager for Trinidad and Tobago's National Theatre Arts Company, National Steel Symphony Orchestra, and National Philharmonic Orchestra. Educated at the College of Science, Technology and Applied Arts and the University of the West Indies, Evans has spent two decades in production, project, and stage management, and theater education.
National Academy for the Performing Arts
Stage & Equipment Manager
Trinidadian-Tobagonian practitioner Tonya Evans is Stage and Equipment Manager for the National Academy for the Performing Arts, resident manager for Trinidad and Tobago's National Theatre Arts Company, National Steel Symphony Orchestra, and National Philharmonic Orchestra. Educated at the College of Science, Technology and Applied Arts and the University of the West Indies, Evans has spent two decades in production, project, and stage management, and theater education.
Calogero Failla
Ballett am Rhein
Calogero Failla
Italy
Ballett am Rhein
Soloist
Italian ballet artist Calogero Failla graduated from the École Supérieure de Danse de Marseille. He is currently a Soloist with Ballett am Rhein. Professionally, he is passionate about artistic excellence and is exploring how leadership and audience engagement can shape the future of the performing arts.
Ballett am Rhein
Soloist
Italian ballet artist Calogero Failla graduated from the École Supérieure de Danse de Marseille. He is currently a Soloist with Ballett am Rhein. Professionally, he is passionate about artistic excellence and is exploring how leadership and audience engagement can shape the future of the performing arts.
Carlos Mauricio Galeano
Instituto Distrital de las Artes de Bogotá
Carlos Mauricio Galeano
Colombia, Mexico, Italy
Instituto Distrital de las Artes de Bogotá
General Director
Colombian cultural manager Carlos Mauricio Galeano is General Director of the Instituto Distrital de las Artes de Bogotá. With over 25 years of experience, Galeano has led cultural institutions, developed public policy, and represented Colombia on international stages, with expertise in arts education and public theater management.
Instituto Distrital de las Artes de Bogotá
General Director
Colombian cultural manager Carlos Mauricio Galeano is General Director of the Instituto Distrital de las Artes de Bogotá. With over 25 years of experience, Galeano has led cultural institutions, developed public policy, and represented Colombia on international stages, with expertise in arts education and public theater management.
Lindsay Gary
Dance Afrikana
Lindsay Gary
United States, Senegal
Dance Afrikana
Founder & Director
American scholar Dr. Lindsay Gary is Founder and Director of Dance Afrikana, a Houston-based dance organization, and Assistant Professor at San Bernardino Valley College. An award-winning professor and Afrocentric entrepreneur, Gary is expanding Dance Afrikana into a global platform for African diasporic dance rooted in research, cultural preservation, and education.
Dance Afrikana
Founder & Director
American scholar Dr. Lindsay Gary is Founder and Director of Dance Afrikana, a Houston-based dance organization, and Assistant Professor at San Bernardino Valley College. An award-winning professor and Afrocentric entrepreneur, Gary is expanding Dance Afrikana into a global platform for African diasporic dance rooted in research, cultural preservation, and education.
Kristin Guerin
Buddy System MIA
Kristin Guerin
United States, Israel
Buddy System MIA
CEO
Israeli-American theater artist Kristin Guerin is CEO of Buddy System MIA, a community-organizing NGO she founded. Educated at Fordham University and Circle in the Square, Guerin brings 15 years of experience in theater and six years of executive leadership, creating immersive productions that bridge art and collective healing across the Middle East.
Buddy System MIA
CEO
Israeli-American theater artist Kristin Guerin is CEO of Buddy System MIA, a community-organizing NGO she founded. Educated at Fordham University and Circle in the Square, Guerin brings 15 years of experience in theater and six years of executive leadership, creating immersive productions that bridge art and collective healing across the Middle East.
Aliena Haig
Classical:NEXT
Aliena Haig
United Kingdom, Germany, Singapore
Classical:NEXT
Head of Global Engagement & Cultural Strategy
British-German cultural diplomat Aliena Haig is Head of Global Engagement and Cultural Strategy at Classical:NEXT. Haig holds a BA in Music and a Master's in Cultural Diplomacy, bringing over a decade of experience in media, communications, partnerships and project management across arts, culture, education, and sustainability.
Classical:NEXT
Head of Global Engagement & Cultural Strategy
British-German cultural diplomat Aliena Haig is Head of Global Engagement and Cultural Strategy at Classical:NEXT. Haig holds a BA in Music and a Master's in Cultural Diplomacy, bringing over a decade of experience in media, communications, partnerships and project management across arts, culture, education, and sustainability.
Io Hernandez Rivera
WHIN Music Community Charter School
Io Hernandez Rivera
United States, Mexico
WHIN Music Community Charter School
Executive Assistant
Mexican-American administrator Io (eye-oh) Hernandez Rivera serves as the Executive Assistant and Special Projects Coordinator at WHIN Music Community Charter School. A DePauw University graduate and violinist, Hernandez Rivera is committed to expanding access to music education and programming for communities of color.
WHIN Music Community Charter School
Executive Assistant
Mexican-American administrator Io (eye-oh) Hernandez Rivera serves as the Executive Assistant and Special Projects Coordinator at WHIN Music Community Charter School. A DePauw University graduate and violinist, Hernandez Rivera is committed to expanding access to music education and programming for communities of color.
Maria Valentina Hidalgo
Universal Music Publishing
Maria Valentina Hidalgo
Venezuela, Mexico, Spain
Universal Music Publishing
A&R
A Venezuelan journalist and cultural manager residing in Mexico with over 20 years of experience in the creative industries. She currently works as an A&R at Universal Music Publishing Mexico & Central America, where she identifies and develops the careers of the songwriters signed in the company.
Universal Music Publishing
A&R
A Venezuelan journalist and cultural manager residing in Mexico with over 20 years of experience in the creative industries. She currently works as an A&R at Universal Music Publishing Mexico & Central America, where she identifies and develops the careers of the songwriters signed in the company.
Molly Hockin
Holistic Repro Project
Molly Hockin
Canada, United States
Holistic Repro Project
Education Director
Canadian-American midwife Molly Hockin is the Education Director of Holistic Repro Project. A registered midwife, Hockin advances creative, ethically grounded models for preserving midwifery, bridging mentorship, clinical practice, and curriculum design.
Holistic Repro Project
Education Director
Canadian-American midwife Molly Hockin is the Education Director of Holistic Repro Project. A registered midwife, Hockin advances creative, ethically grounded models for preserving midwifery, bridging mentorship, clinical practice, and curriculum design.
Leah Valentine Hull
Land & Light
Leah Valentine Hull
United States, Ireland, Italy
Land & Light
Assistant Director & Stage Manager
Leah Valentine is an emerging nonprofit leader working at the intersection of the arts and community impact. She's currently building Land & Light, a nonprofit set to launch its pilot season in 2027. Through her work, Leah is focused on designing experiences that spark connection, deepen service, and build lasting engagement across the communities she serves.
Land & Light
Assistant Director & Stage Manager
Leah Valentine is an emerging nonprofit leader working at the intersection of the arts and community impact. She's currently building Land & Light, a nonprofit set to launch its pilot season in 2027. Through her work, Leah is focused on designing experiences that spark connection, deepen service, and build lasting engagement across the communities she serves.
Luis Jaloma
Perro Androide
Luis Jaloma
Mexico, Argentina, United Kingdom
Perro Androide
Head Producer & Founder
Mexican cultural policy leader Luis Jaloma has led arts programs, international festivals, and institutional cultural initiatives at Cobach Sonora and the Hermosillo Municipal Institute for Arts & Culture. Perro Androide is his latest project, developing local artists and audiences. Originally from Sonora, Mexico, Jaloma brings over two decades of experience in cultural governance, federal funding strategy, and community engagement through the arts.
Perro Androide
Head Producer & Founder
Mexican cultural policy leader Luis Jaloma has led arts programs, international festivals, and institutional cultural initiatives at Cobach Sonora and the Hermosillo Municipal Institute for Arts & Culture. Perro Androide is his latest project, developing local artists and audiences. Originally from Sonora, Mexico, Jaloma brings over two decades of experience in cultural governance, federal funding strategy, and community engagement through the arts.
Jennifer James
Young Audiences of Louisiana
Jennifer James
United States, Italy
Young Audiences of Louisiana
Executive Director
American arts leader Jennifer James is Executive Director of Young Audiences of Louisiana. With over 15 years scaling arts education initiatives and leading multimillion-dollar projects, James is committed to expanding equitable access to arts learning through systems-level, globally minded leadership.
Young Audiences of Louisiana
Executive Director
American arts leader Jennifer James is Executive Director of Young Audiences of Louisiana. With over 15 years scaling arts education initiatives and leading multimillion-dollar projects, James is committed to expanding equitable access to arts learning through systems-level, globally minded leadership.
Abaynesh Jembere
Motherland Mothers Foundation
Abaynesh Jembere
Ethiopia, Rwanda, United States
Motherland Mothers Foundation
Founder & CEO
Abaynesh Jembere is Founder and CEO of the Motherland Mothers Foundation. A Drexel University graduate and an Ethiopian-American entrepreneur, Jembere also founded Motherland54, and works at the intersection of art and culture to amplify African arts, artisans, and communities through design, storytelling, and philanthropy.
Motherland Mothers Foundation
Founder & CEO
Abaynesh Jembere is Founder and CEO of the Motherland Mothers Foundation. A Drexel University graduate and an Ethiopian-American entrepreneur, Jembere also founded Motherland54, and works at the intersection of art and culture to amplify African arts, artisans, and communities through design, storytelling, and philanthropy.
Kenneth Kellogg
West Edge Opera
Kenneth Kellogg
United States
West Edge Opera
Director of Marketing
American arts administrator Kenneth Kellogg is Director of Marketing and Engagement at West Edge Opera. A professional bass whose career spans performance at leading opera companies, Kellogg drives audience development and civic partnership for nonprofit arts organizations.
West Edge Opera
Director of Marketing
American arts administrator Kenneth Kellogg is Director of Marketing and Engagement at West Edge Opera. A professional bass whose career spans performance at leading opera companies, Kellogg drives audience development and civic partnership for nonprofit arts organizations.
Hoi Tong Keung
The Happenstancers
Hoi Tong Keung
Canada
The Happenstancers
Operations & Production Manager
Hong Kong-born, Toronto-based musician Hoi Tong Keung is Production and Operations Manager of The Happenstancers, a Toronto chamber ensemble. A University of Toronto graduate, Keung co-founded the award-winning percussion duo KöNG Duo and performs sheng with the Toronto Chinese Orchestra.
The Happenstancers
Operations & Production Manager
Hong Kong-born, Toronto-based musician Hoi Tong Keung is Production and Operations Manager of The Happenstancers, a Toronto chamber ensemble. A University of Toronto graduate, Keung co-founded the award-winning percussion duo KöNG Duo and performs sheng with the Toronto Chinese Orchestra.
Natalie Koh
MusAbility
Natalie Koh
Singapore, United States
MusAbility
Director
Singaporean violinist Natalie Koh is a former Violin Fellow at the New World Symphony, America's Orchestral Academy. Koh is passionate about fostering inclusive spaces that engage the neurodiverse community and creating educational opportunities that empower musicians to support these efforts.
MusAbility
Director
Singaporean violinist Natalie Koh is a former Violin Fellow at the New World Symphony, America's Orchestral Academy. Koh is passionate about fostering inclusive spaces that engage the neurodiverse community and creating educational opportunities that empower musicians to support these efforts.
Amber Lewis
Northern Ballet
Amber Lewis
Australia, United States, China
Northern Ballet
Principal Dancer
Australian dancer Amber Lewis is Principal Dancer with Northern Ballet. Lewis has built an international career showcasing exceptional versatility and artistic range, and takes an active role within the ballet community as an Equity Representative and Associate Content Creator.
Northern Ballet
Principal Dancer
Australian dancer Amber Lewis is Principal Dancer with Northern Ballet. Lewis has built an international career showcasing exceptional versatility and artistic range, and takes an active role within the ballet community as an Equity Representative and Associate Content Creator.
Naomi Lord
Creatives Now
Naomi Lord
United Kingdom, United States
Creatives Now
Founder & Director
British artist-researcher Naomi Lord is Founder and Director of Creatives Now. Working across the UK and US, her practice brings together participatory arts, cultural development, research and civic collaboration to build creative agency, strengthen community voice and develop locally rooted cultural infrastructure.
Creatives Now
Founder & Director
British artist-researcher Naomi Lord is Founder and Director of Creatives Now. Working across the UK and US, her practice brings together participatory arts, cultural development, research and civic collaboration to build creative agency, strengthen community voice and develop locally rooted cultural infrastructure.
Chloe Louvouezo Qadree
Gates Foundation
Chloe Louvouezo Qadree
United States, Niger, Republic of the Congo
Gates Foundation
Senior Communications Officer
Congolese-American communicator Chloe Louvouezo Qadree is a Senior Communications Officer at the Gates Foundation. A seasoned creative, strategist, producer, and published author, Louvouezo Qadree helps global organizations and cultural artists translate their work into human-centered stories that spark narrative change.
Gates Foundation
Senior Communications Officer
Congolese-American communicator Chloe Louvouezo Qadree is a Senior Communications Officer at the Gates Foundation. A seasoned creative, strategist, producer, and published author, Louvouezo Qadree helps global organizations and cultural artists translate their work into human-centered stories that spark narrative change.
Kacie Luaders
Could Be Pretty Cool
Kacie Luaders
United States
Could Be Pretty Cool
Founder
American entrepreneur Kacie Luaders is Founder of Could Be Pretty Cool, an Atlanta studio producing community-driven media, events, and audio projects. Luaders' work bridges sound design, podcast production, and creative entrepreneurship.
Could Be Pretty Cool
Founder
American entrepreneur Kacie Luaders is Founder of Could Be Pretty Cool, an Atlanta studio producing community-driven media, events, and audio projects. Luaders' work bridges sound design, podcast production, and creative entrepreneurship.
Leslie Macedo
Musicopia
Leslie Macedo
United States, Brazil
Musicopia
Senior Director of Programming
American arts leader Leslie Macedo is Senior Director of Programming at Musicopia and Co-Managing Director of the Mamadêlê Foundation. A Philadelphia-based nonprofit administrator, Macedo specializes in global arts, cultural exchange, and arts education.
Musicopia
Senior Director of Programming
American arts leader Leslie Macedo is Senior Director of Programming at Musicopia and Co-Managing Director of the Mamadêlê Foundation. A Philadelphia-based nonprofit administrator, Macedo specializes in global arts, cultural exchange, and arts education.
Rudresh Mahanthappa
Princeton University
Rudresh Mahanthappa
United States, India
Princeton University
Director of Jazz
American saxophonist Rudresh Mahanthappa is Director of Jazz at Princeton University, and one of the premier voices in jazz. Mahanthappa has released over 17 albums and received the Guggenheim Fellowship and the Doris Duke Performing Artist Award, alongside numerous Downbeat Magazine critic poll wins.
Princeton University
Director of Jazz
American saxophonist Rudresh Mahanthappa is Director of Jazz at Princeton University, and one of the premier voices in jazz. Mahanthappa has released over 17 albums and received the Guggenheim Fellowship and the Doris Duke Performing Artist Award, alongside numerous Downbeat Magazine critic poll wins.
Kelli Maldonado
Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation
Kelli Maldonado
United States
Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation
Executive Director, Mission & Impact
American arts leader Kelli Maldonado is Executive Director of Mission and Impact at the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation. Holding an MA in Applied Theatre and 15 years of experience advancing education and community engagement, Maldonado leads research-based arts programs that deepen learning and civic connection.
Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation
Executive Director, Mission & Impact
American arts leader Kelli Maldonado is Executive Director of Mission and Impact at the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation. Holding an MA in Applied Theatre and 15 years of experience advancing education and community engagement, Maldonado leads research-based arts programs that deepen learning and civic connection.
Éder Augusto Marcos
São Paulo Symphony Orchestra
Éder Augusto Marcos
Brazil
São Paulo Symphony Orchestra
Choir Coordinator
Brazilian musician Éder Augusto Marcos is Choir Coordinator at Fundação Osesp, home of the São Paulo Symphony Orchestra. Holding both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Arts from the University of São Paulo, he also plays a leadership role in independent artistic and educational projects that promote concert and popular music, including initiatives that integrate poetry and music in the city of São Paulo.
São Paulo Symphony Orchestra
Choir Coordinator
Brazilian musician Éder Augusto Marcos is Choir Coordinator at Fundação Osesp, home of the São Paulo Symphony Orchestra. Holding both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Arts from the University of São Paulo, he also plays a leadership role in independent artistic and educational projects that promote concert and popular music, including initiatives that integrate poetry and music in the city of São Paulo.
Gyan Singh Maria
The Muses Project
Gyan Singh Maria
United States, Hungary
The Muses Project
Music Director
American conductor Gyan Singh Maria is Music Director of The Muses Project, and Conducting Fellow at Portland Opera. Singh Maria creates programs that combine classical music with education about its cultural intersections.
The Muses Project
Music Director
American conductor Gyan Singh Maria is Music Director of The Muses Project, and Conducting Fellow at Portland Opera. Singh Maria creates programs that combine classical music with education about its cultural intersections.
Susan Mathews
KRIT Consulting
Susan Mathews
Switzerland, India, Kuwait
KRIT Consulting
Director
Indian-Swiss publisher Susan Mathews is Director of KRIT Consulting SARL in Switzerland. An international lawyer turned avant-garde publisher and cultural curator, Mathews founded the online magazine Dark 'n' Light and hosts the podcast The Subverse.
KRIT Consulting
Director
Indian-Swiss publisher Susan Mathews is Director of KRIT Consulting SARL in Switzerland. An international lawyer turned avant-garde publisher and cultural curator, Mathews founded the online magazine Dark 'n' Light and hosts the podcast The Subverse.
Luca Medici
Conservatorio della Svizzera Italiana
Luca Medici
Switzerland
Conservatorio della Svizzera Italiana
Director
Swiss musician Luca Medici is Director of the Music School Department at Conservatorio della Svizzera italiana, the largest institute of its kind in the Ticino canton, serving 1,000 students and 80 teachers. Educated at the Conservatorio and in Zurich, Medici also teaches clarinet and conducts two wind bands.
Conservatorio della Svizzera Italiana
Director
Swiss musician Luca Medici is Director of the Music School Department at Conservatorio della Svizzera italiana, the largest institute of its kind in the Ticino canton, serving 1,000 students and 80 teachers. Educated at the Conservatorio and in Zurich, Medici also teaches clarinet and conducts two wind bands.
Mariana Mellado
Creative Campaigns & Communications
Mariana Mellado
Chile, United States
Creative Campaigns & Communications
Consultant
Originally from Chile, Mariana Mellado is a creative content and communications consultant with over a decade of experience dedicated to global projects, campaigns, storytelling, and multimedia across the United Nations system and international nonprofit organizations. Her expertise spans multiculturalism, sustainability, development, gender, and social impact.
Creative Campaigns & Communications
Consultant
Originally from Chile, Mariana Mellado is a creative content and communications consultant with over a decade of experience dedicated to global projects, campaigns, storytelling, and multimedia across the United Nations system and international nonprofit organizations. Her expertise spans multiculturalism, sustainability, development, gender, and social impact.
Bruno Micchiardi
Scottish Ballet
Bruno Micchiardi
Spain, United Kingdom, Italy
Scottish Ballet
Principal Dancer
British-Italian dancer Bruno Micchiardi is Principal Dancer with Scottish Ballet. A graduate of the Royal Ballet School with honours, Micchiardi began his professional career with the Estonian National Ballet before moving to Scotland, and has been nominated twice for National Dance Awards.
Scottish Ballet
Principal Dancer
British-Italian dancer Bruno Micchiardi is Principal Dancer with Scottish Ballet. A graduate of the Royal Ballet School with honours, Micchiardi began his professional career with the Estonian National Ballet before moving to Scotland, and has been nominated twice for National Dance Awards.
Denise Montgomery
CultureThrive
Denise Montgomery
United States
CultureThrive
Founder
American consultant Denise Montgomery is Founder of CultureThrive and the Global Centre for Creative Youth Development, launching in late 2026. A leading expert in creative youth development, Montgomery is recognized for codifying the field through seminal publications.
CultureThrive
Founder
American consultant Denise Montgomery is Founder of CultureThrive and the Global Centre for Creative Youth Development, launching in late 2026. A leading expert in creative youth development, Montgomery is recognized for codifying the field through seminal publications.
Alison Moritz
Stage & Artistic Leadership
Alison Moritz
United States
Stage & Artistic
Director
Baltimore-based American stage director Alison Moritz recently completed her tenure as Artistic Director of the historic Central City Opera, with additional credits at Opera Philadelphia, the Glimmerglass Festival, Cincinnati Opera, and the Kennedy Center. Moritz is equally regarded for her innovative interpretations of the classics and incisive takes on contemporary music theater, with her work as an administrator focused on the intersection of artistic sustainability and audience growth.
Stage & Artistic
Director
Baltimore-based American stage director Alison Moritz recently completed her tenure as Artistic Director of the historic Central City Opera, with additional credits at Opera Philadelphia, the Glimmerglass Festival, Cincinnati Opera, and the Kennedy Center. Moritz is equally regarded for her innovative interpretations of the classics and incisive takes on contemporary music theater, with her work as an administrator focused on the intersection of artistic sustainability and audience growth.
Catherine Morris
BAMS Fest
Catherine Morris
Brazil, Trinidad and Tobago, Cuba
BAMS Fest
Founder & CEO
American curator and social entrepreneur Catherine Morris is Founder, President and CEO of Boston Art & Music Soul Fest (BAMS Fest), where she drives organizational strategy and programmatic vision. Educated at Temple University in Philadelphia, Morris brings over 25 years of experience in arts ecosystem design, spatial justice, and movement building.
BAMS Fest
Founder & CEO
American curator and social entrepreneur Catherine Morris is Founder, President and CEO of Boston Art & Music Soul Fest (BAMS Fest), where she drives organizational strategy and programmatic vision. Educated at Temple University in Philadelphia, Morris brings over 25 years of experience in arts ecosystem design, spatial justice, and movement building.
Irene Muller
Goethe-Institut
Irene Muller
Uruguay, Argentina, Germany
Goethe-Institut
Director
Uruguayan-Argentine cultural manager Irene Muller is Director at the Goethe-Institut. With extensive experience in international cooperation, strategic communication, and project management, Muller designs and delivers cultural and educational programs, combining analytical rigor with intercultural competence.
Goethe-Institut
Director
Uruguayan-Argentine cultural manager Irene Muller is Director at the Goethe-Institut. With extensive experience in international cooperation, strategic communication, and project management, Muller designs and delivers cultural and educational programs, combining analytical rigor with intercultural competence.
Lauren Myers
ColorCreative
Lauren Myers
United States
ColorCreative
Community Manager
American community builder Lauren Myers is Community Manager at ColorCreative. Myers is also Founder of experience design house [Be]Leaux & Co., building infrastructure and access for creatives from historically underrepresented communities as a partnerships executive and event producer.
ColorCreative
Community Manager
American community builder Lauren Myers is Community Manager at ColorCreative. Myers is also Founder of experience design house [Be]Leaux & Co., building infrastructure and access for creatives from historically underrepresented communities as a partnerships executive and event producer.
LeCiel Nejema
WEHU
LeCiel Nejema
United States, Germany, Mexico
WEHU
Founder & Creative Director
American sound artist LeCiel Nejema is Founder and Creative Director of WEHU LLC. Working across live electronics, voice, and film, Nejema investigates cultural memory and resistance through sound, currently developing WEHU Nexus, infrastructure for independent music creatives.
WEHU
Founder & Creative Director
American sound artist LeCiel Nejema is Founder and Creative Director of WEHU LLC. Working across live electronics, voice, and film, Nejema investigates cultural memory and resistance through sound, currently developing WEHU Nexus, infrastructure for independent music creatives.
Djordje Nesic
Manhattan School of Music
Djordje Nesic
Serbia
Manhattan School of Music
Opera Coach & Conductor
Serbian-American pianist Djordje Nesic is a conductor on faculty at the Manhattan School of Music and SUNY Purchase Music Conservatory. Nesic has performed at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the United Nations General Assembly Hall, and strives to promote music addressing social justice and human rights.
Manhattan School of Music
Opera Coach & Conductor
Serbian-American pianist Djordje Nesic is a conductor on faculty at the Manhattan School of Music and SUNY Purchase Music Conservatory. Nesic has performed at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the United Nations General Assembly Hall, and strives to promote music addressing social justice and human rights.
Emily O'Neil
New Art Center
Emily O'Neil
United States, Italy, Germany
New Art Center
Executive Director
American arts executive Emily O'Neil is Executive Director of the New Art Center in Newton, Massachusetts. O'Neil leads strategic initiatives in arts education, public engagement, and cultural policy innovation, focused on cultural equity and sustainable sector growth.
New Art Center
Executive Director
American arts executive Emily O'Neil is Executive Director of the New Art Center in Newton, Massachusetts. O'Neil leads strategic initiatives in arts education, public engagement, and cultural policy innovation, focused on cultural equity and sustainable sector growth.
Georgina Pazcoguin
New York City Ballet
Georgina Pazcoguin
United States, Philippines, Italy
New York City Ballet
Dancer
American performing artist and producer Georgina Pazcoguin is Co-Founder of Final Bow for Yellowface, driving change to eliminate Asian stereotypes in ballet. Celebrated as 'The Rogue Ballerina' as the first Asian American woman promoted to the upper ranks of New York City Ballet, Pazcoguin is a 2026 Dance Magazine Award honoree and author of the memoir Swan Dive. A Harvard Business School alum, she focuses on scaling creative enterprises and sustainable arts entrepreneurship.
New York City Ballet
Dancer
American performing artist and producer Georgina Pazcoguin is Co-Founder of Final Bow for Yellowface, driving change to eliminate Asian stereotypes in ballet. Celebrated as 'The Rogue Ballerina' as the first Asian American woman promoted to the upper ranks of New York City Ballet, Pazcoguin is a 2026 Dance Magazine Award honoree and author of the memoir Swan Dive. A Harvard Business School alum, she focuses on scaling creative enterprises and sustainable arts entrepreneurship.
Geneva Peschka
+Disrupter Productions
Geneva Peschka
Canada, United States, Germany
+Disrupter Productions
Founder & Directorr
Canadian filmmaker Geneva Peschka is an Independent Documentary Director exploring identity, belonging, and collective resilience through collaborative storytelling. Peschka's films have screened at Tribeca and the New Orleans Film Festival, winning a Grand Jury Award and an NAACP Image Award nomination.
+Disrupter Productions
Founder & Directorr
Canadian filmmaker Geneva Peschka is an Independent Documentary Director exploring identity, belonging, and collective resilience through collaborative storytelling. Peschka's films have screened at Tribeca and the New Orleans Film Festival, winning a Grand Jury Award and an NAACP Image Award nomination.
Kira Petersen
New Mexico Ballet Company
Kira Petersen
United States, Denmark
New Mexico Ballet Company
Principal Dancer
American ballet dancer Kira Petersen is Principal Dancer with New Mexico Ballet Company in Albuquerque. Drawing on years of experience in performing, teaching, and administration, Petersen is committed to expanding access to the arts and strengthening regional arts communities.
New Mexico Ballet Company
Principal Dancer
American ballet dancer Kira Petersen is Principal Dancer with New Mexico Ballet Company in Albuquerque. Drawing on years of experience in performing, teaching, and administration, Petersen is committed to expanding access to the arts and strengthening regional arts communities.
Eugenia Piazza
Fondazione Policlinico Sant’Orsola
Eugenia Piazza
Italy, France, United Kingdom
Fondazione Policlinico Sant’Orsola
Major Gifts Fundraiser
Eugenia Piazza is Corporate Partnership Manager at Fondazione Policlinico Sant'Orsola, the philanthropic foundation of a leading European hospital rooted in integral, art-informed care. With a background in Classics and Fundraising from the University of Bologna, she specializes in high-value donor relations and EU-funded project management.
Fondazione Policlinico Sant’Orsola
Major Gifts Fundraiser
Eugenia Piazza is Corporate Partnership Manager at Fondazione Policlinico Sant'Orsola, the philanthropic foundation of a leading European hospital rooted in integral, art-informed care. With a background in Classics and Fundraising from the University of Bologna, she specializes in high-value donor relations and EU-funded project management.
Alicja Pilarczyk
Concept Store Quartet
Alicja Pilarczyk
Poland, Switzerland
Concept Store Quartet, Academy of Art in Szczecin, Basel Sinfonietta
Violinist, Leader, Lecturer
Polish violinist Alicja Pilarczyk is founder and leader of Concept Store Quartet, lecturer at the Academy of Art in Szczecin and violinist of Basel Sinfonietta. Specialised in contemporary music, Pilarczyk develops projects examining the relationship between art and society.
Concept Store Quartet, Academy of Art in Szczecin, Basel Sinfonietta
Violinist, Leader, Lecturer
Polish violinist Alicja Pilarczyk is founder and leader of Concept Store Quartet, lecturer at the Academy of Art in Szczecin and violinist of Basel Sinfonietta. Specialised in contemporary music, Pilarczyk develops projects examining the relationship between art and society.
Kody Pisney
McGill University
Kody Pisney
United States, Canada
McGill University
Course Instructor
American choral conductor Kody Pisney is Course Instructor and doctoral candidate at McGill University. An educator and performing artist, Pisney values creativity, empathy, and collaboration as the foundations of meaningful artistic and community leadership.
McGill University
Course Instructor
American choral conductor Kody Pisney is Course Instructor and doctoral candidate at McGill University. An educator and performing artist, Pisney values creativity, empathy, and collaboration as the foundations of meaningful artistic and community leadership.
Caitlin Pontrella
Edmonds Center for the Arts
Caitlin Pontrella
United States
Edmonds Center for the Arts
Interim Executive Director
American cultural sector leader Caitlin Pontrella is a professional Interim CEO, currently leading the Edmonds Center for the Arts. A lifelong visual artist turned nonprofit leader based in Seattle, Pontrella supports nonprofit organizations in transition, teaches with Seattle University's Arts Leadership MFA program, and is a published author on nonprofit governance.
Edmonds Center for the Arts
Interim Executive Director
American cultural sector leader Caitlin Pontrella is a professional Interim CEO, currently leading the Edmonds Center for the Arts. A lifelong visual artist turned nonprofit leader based in Seattle, Pontrella supports nonprofit organizations in transition, teaches with Seattle University's Arts Leadership MFA program, and is a published author on nonprofit governance.
Yulia Potvin
Yulia Potvin Music
Yulia Potvin
Russia
Yulia Potvin Music
Founder
Russian-American violinist Yulia Potvin is Founder of Yulia Potvin Music, Inc. An accomplished classical violinist, Potvin performs as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral player, and operates a violin teaching studio while organizing cultural projects throughout Central Massachusetts.
Yulia Potvin Music
Founder
Russian-American violinist Yulia Potvin is Founder of Yulia Potvin Music, Inc. An accomplished classical violinist, Potvin performs as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral player, and operates a violin teaching studio while organizing cultural projects throughout Central Massachusetts.
Brian Prechtl
Baltimore Symphony Orchestra
Brian Prechtl
United States, Italy, Ireland
Baltimore Symphony Orchestra
Musician
American musician Brian Prechtl is a percussionist with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. In addition to performing, Prechtl brings the rare perspective of leadership both on stage and in executive administration, and has been a leader in BSO's OrchKids program is also a recognized composer.
Baltimore Symphony Orchestra
Musician
American musician Brian Prechtl is a percussionist with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. In addition to performing, Prechtl brings the rare perspective of leadership both on stage and in executive administration, and has been a leader in BSO's OrchKids program is also a recognized composer.
Grace Danousha Reid
International Ballet Dancer
Grace Danousha Reid
United Kingdom, Canada, Poland
International Ballet Dancer
Artist
British-Canadian ballet dancer Grace Danousha Reid has been a member of leading international companies including The Royal Ballet, Royal Danish Ballet, and English National Ballet. Her career spans international touring, choreographic collaborations, and medal recognition at prominent ballet competitions.
International Ballet Dancer
Artist
British-Canadian ballet dancer Grace Danousha Reid has been a member of leading international companies including The Royal Ballet, Royal Danish Ballet, and English National Ballet. Her career spans international touring, choreographic collaborations, and medal recognition at prominent ballet competitions.
Monica Risi
TEATRA
Monica Risi
Peru, Mexico, United States
TEATRA
Co-Founder & Co-Director
Peruvian-American producer, director, actor, and educator Monica Risi is Co-Founder and Co-Director of TEATRA, collaborating with women producers across Latin America to curate learning experiences for an international network of women in the performing arts. With over 15 years of experience across New York, Lima, and Latin America, Risi focuses on cultivating multicultural work cultures informed by bold, joyous art makers.
TEATRA
Co-Founder & Co-Director
Peruvian-American producer, director, actor, and educator Monica Risi is Co-Founder and Co-Director of TEATRA, collaborating with women producers across Latin America to curate learning experiences for an international network of women in the performing arts. With over 15 years of experience across New York, Lima, and Latin America, Risi focuses on cultivating multicultural work cultures informed by bold, joyous art makers.
Joshua Robinson
The Risk Theatre Company
Joshua Robinson
United States, Gabon, United Kingdom
The Risk Theatre Company
Artistic Director
American actor Joshua Robinson is Artistic Director of The Risk Theatre Company. An actor and teacher, Robinson works to highlight unknown stories of people of color in America and build lasting partnerships between communities through performance and professional development.
The Risk Theatre Company
Artistic Director
American actor Joshua Robinson is Artistic Director of The Risk Theatre Company. An actor and teacher, Robinson works to highlight unknown stories of people of color in America and build lasting partnerships between communities through performance and professional development.
Ka Lynn Robinson
UKG
Ka Lynn Robinson
United States, Jamaica
UKG
Chief of Staff
American executive Ka Lynn Robinson is Chief of Staff and Business Operations Lead at UKG. Educated at Florida International University and Lynn University, Robinson builds systems supporting organizational transformation and revenue recovery, informing an emerging cultural leadership practice.
UKG
Chief of Staff
American executive Ka Lynn Robinson is Chief of Staff and Business Operations Lead at UKG. Educated at Florida International University and Lynn University, Robinson builds systems supporting organizational transformation and revenue recovery, informing an emerging cultural leadership practice.
Charilyne Rojas
Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra
Charilyne Rojas
United States, Philippines, Canada
Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra
Conductor & Communications Director
American conductor Charilyne Rojas is Conductor and Communications Director for the Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra. An artist, educator, and administrator, Rojas inspires the next generation of artists and connects communities through music education.
Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra
Conductor & Communications Director
American conductor Charilyne Rojas is Conductor and Communications Director for the Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra. An artist, educator, and administrator, Rojas inspires the next generation of artists and connects communities through music education.
Jules Ross-Brown
King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture
Jules Ross-Brown
Oman, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia
King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture
Senior Producer
British producer Jules Ross-Brown is Senior Producer at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) in Saudi Arabia. With over 20 years across the UK and GCC, she specializes in international performing arts and ambitious cultural programming. Ross-Brown previously served as Executive Manager for Production at ADMAF, following more than a decade at the Royal Opera House Muscat.
King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture
Senior Producer
British producer Jules Ross-Brown is Senior Producer at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) in Saudi Arabia. With over 20 years across the UK and GCC, she specializes in international performing arts and ambitious cultural programming. Ross-Brown previously served as Executive Manager for Production at ADMAF, following more than a decade at the Royal Opera House Muscat.
Erin Ryan
Burnet Institute
Erin Ryan
United States
Burnet Institute
Midwifery Technical Specialist
American midwife specializing in global maternal health Erin Ryan is a Midwifery Technical Specialist at the Burnet Institute in Australia. Ryan leads education reform and national strategy development across the Pacific and Asia, strengthening health systems and building workforce capacity.
Burnet Institute
Midwifery Technical Specialist
American midwife specializing in global maternal health Erin Ryan is a Midwifery Technical Specialist at the Burnet Institute in Australia. Ryan leads education reform and national strategy development across the Pacific and Asia, strengthening health systems and building workforce capacity.
Ricardo Salinas
Global Groove
Ricardo Salinas
Chile, United States, Italy
Global Groove
Founder
Chilean-born producer Ricardo Salinas is Founder of Global Groove, a Seattle platform connecting communities through global dance music and diasporic culture. Salinas holds a B.A. in Music from Universidad ARCIS and manages multi-unit operations as an Area Manager at Evergreens.
Global Groove
Founder
Chilean-born producer Ricardo Salinas is Founder of Global Groove, a Seattle platform connecting communities through global dance music and diasporic culture. Salinas holds a B.A. in Music from Universidad ARCIS and manages multi-unit operations as an Area Manager at Evergreens.
Lilli Samman
Vivo Performing Arts
Lilli Samman
United States
Vivo Performing Arts
Sales & Marketing Manager
American arts professional Lilli Samman is Group Sales and Marketing Manager at Vivo Performing Arts. A classically trained musician raised in a multicultural, multifaith family, Samman brings a people-centered approach to engaging a wide spectrum of cultures through the arts.
Vivo Performing Arts
Sales & Marketing Manager
American arts professional Lilli Samman is Group Sales and Marketing Manager at Vivo Performing Arts. A classically trained musician raised in a multicultural, multifaith family, Samman brings a people-centered approach to engaging a wide spectrum of cultures through the arts.
Jose Sarralde
Cartel Urbano
Jose Sarralde
Colombia
Cartel Urbano
Founder
Colombian cultural entrepreneur José Sarralde is Co-Founder of Cartel Urbano Culture Lab, where he has spent over two decades building initiatives at the intersection of culture, innovation, environment, and social transformation. Sarralde also co-founded MELAH (Movimiento de Expresiones Latinoamericanas de Hip Hop) and Jaguar Siembra Colombia, and is passionate about using art to empower communities and create meaningful change.
Cartel Urbano
Founder
Colombian cultural entrepreneur José Sarralde is Co-Founder of Cartel Urbano Culture Lab, where he has spent over two decades building initiatives at the intersection of culture, innovation, environment, and social transformation. Sarralde also co-founded MELAH (Movimiento de Expresiones Latinoamericanas de Hip Hop) and Jaguar Siembra Colombia, and is passionate about using art to empower communities and create meaningful change.
Graham Sattler
Christchurch Symphony Orchestra
Graham Sattler
Australia
Christchurch Symphony Orchestra
CEO
Australian performer, academic and community music leader Graham Sattler is CEO of Christchurch Symphony Orchestra and Adjunct Senior Fellow at the University of Canterbury (New Zealand). A PhD in music education (Sydney University 2016), his ongoing research focuses on the impacts of accessible participatory music activity and effective leadership.
Christchurch Symphony Orchestra
CEO
Australian performer, academic and community music leader Graham Sattler is CEO of Christchurch Symphony Orchestra and Adjunct Senior Fellow at the University of Canterbury (New Zealand). A PhD in music education (Sydney University 2016), his ongoing research focuses on the impacts of accessible participatory music activity and effective leadership.
Siddhartha Shah
Amherst College
Siddhartha Shah
United States, India
Amherst College
Director, Mead Art Museum
American museum leader Siddhartha Shah is the John Wieland 1958 Director of the Mead Art Museum at Amherst College. Educated at Johns Hopkins and Columbia Universities, Shah champions the importance of the visual arts to individual and societal wellbeing, and oversees initiatives deepening community engagement.
Amherst College
Director, Mead Art Museum
American museum leader Siddhartha Shah is the John Wieland 1958 Director of the Mead Art Museum at Amherst College. Educated at Johns Hopkins and Columbia Universities, Shah champions the importance of the visual arts to individual and societal wellbeing, and oversees initiatives deepening community engagement.
Julie Siglin
Wharton Esherick Museum
Julie Siglin
United States
Wharton Esherick Museum
Executive Director
American nonprofit leader Julie Siglin has served as Executive Director of the Wharton Esherick Museum since 2016. Educated in Arts Administration at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Siglin has more than doubled the museum’s budget, built its professional staff, secured a transformational $10 million endowment, and expanded its national visibility through exhibitions, partnerships, and programs.
Wharton Esherick Museum
Executive Director
American nonprofit leader Julie Siglin has served as Executive Director of the Wharton Esherick Museum since 2016. Educated in Arts Administration at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Siglin has more than doubled the museum’s budget, built its professional staff, secured a transformational $10 million endowment, and expanded its national visibility through exhibitions, partnerships, and programs.
Tony Small
St. Bernardine Archdiocese of Baltimore
Tony Small
United States
St. Bernardine Archdiocese of Baltimore
Music Director
American composer Tony Small is Music Director for the St. Bernardine Archdiocese of Baltimore, and a multi-genre, award-winning composer and lyricist across musical theatre, jazz, classical, and gospel music. Small has led award-winning arts education programs across four major cities for over 35 years and previously served as Artistic Director of the historic Madame Walker Theatre.
St. Bernardine Archdiocese of Baltimore
Music Director
American composer Tony Small is Music Director for the St. Bernardine Archdiocese of Baltimore, and a multi-genre, award-winning composer and lyricist across musical theatre, jazz, classical, and gospel music. Small has led award-winning arts education programs across four major cities for over 35 years and previously served as Artistic Director of the historic Madame Walker Theatre.
Kyla-Rose Smith
Found Sound Nation
Kyla-Rose Smith
South Africa, United States
Found Sound Nation
Executive Director
South African-born musician Kyla-Rose Smith is Executive Director of Found Sound Nation. Smith leads global, artist-driven initiatives using music and sound to foster social connection, cultural exchange, and creative collaboration across difference, borders, and disciplines.
Found Sound Nation
Executive Director
South African-born musician Kyla-Rose Smith is Executive Director of Found Sound Nation. Smith leads global, artist-driven initiatives using music and sound to foster social connection, cultural exchange, and creative collaboration across difference, borders, and disciplines.
Robert Smith III
Surdna Foundation
Robert Smith III
United States
Surdna Foundation
Senior Program Officer
Robert Smith III is Senior Program Officer of Thriving Cultures at the Surdna Foundation in New York City. Educated at Brown University and the University of Minnesota, Smith leads a grantmaking portfolio bridging artists and culture workers with social movements and policymakers.
Surdna Foundation
Senior Program Officer
Robert Smith III is Senior Program Officer of Thriving Cultures at the Surdna Foundation in New York City. Educated at Brown University and the University of Minnesota, Smith leads a grantmaking portfolio bridging artists and culture workers with social movements and policymakers.
Noa Tal-El
Azul Conscious Movement
Noa Tal-El
Israel, Canada, Italy
Azul Conscious Movement
Founder
Israeli artist Noa is a multidisciplinary artist, social worker, and space holder based in Jerusalem. She founded Azul Conscious Movement in Israel and co-founded Kulna Jerusalem, promoting ancestral healing and Israeli-Palestinian peacebuilding through creativity, spirituality, and community. She also works as a musician and DJ.
Azul Conscious Movement
Founder
Israeli artist Noa is a multidisciplinary artist, social worker, and space holder based in Jerusalem. She founded Azul Conscious Movement in Israel and co-founded Kulna Jerusalem, promoting ancestral healing and Israeli-Palestinian peacebuilding through creativity, spirituality, and community. She also works as a musician and DJ.
Nicky Thomas
NT Media
Nicky Thomas
Italy, France, United Kingdom
NT Media
Founder & Managing Director
British publicist Nicky Thomas is Founder and Managing Director of Nicky Thomas Media, which she launched 17 years ago to provide international PR to arts organizations across Europe. Clients have included the Paris Opera's Opéra Royal, Les Talens Lyriques, the London Symphony Orchestra, and the Gothenburg Opera House.
NT Media
Founder & Managing Director
British publicist Nicky Thomas is Founder and Managing Director of Nicky Thomas Media, which she launched 17 years ago to provide international PR to arts organizations across Europe. Clients have included the Paris Opera's Opéra Royal, Les Talens Lyriques, the London Symphony Orchestra, and the Gothenburg Opera House.
Jan Tomala
Penderecki Center
Jan Tomala
Poland
Penderecki Center
Head of Production
Polish producer Jan Tomala is Head of Production at the Krzysztof Penderecki European Centre for Music in Lusławice, where he has worked for 14 years overseeing the institution's programming. Tomala co-creates strategic projects including festivals, talent development programs, and ensemble residencies, and leads a creative team focused on quality and collaboration.
Penderecki Center
Head of Production
Polish producer Jan Tomala is Head of Production at the Krzysztof Penderecki European Centre for Music in Lusławice, where he has worked for 14 years overseeing the institution's programming. Tomala co-creates strategic projects including festivals, talent development programs, and ensemble residencies, and leads a creative team focused on quality and collaboration.
Iza Tworzydlo
BNP Paribas
Iza Tworzydlo
Poland, Germany, Spain
BNP Paribas
Director
Polish executive Iza Tworzydlo is Director at BNP Paribas, bringing nearly 20 years of experience driving organizational transformation, strategic communication, and culture change in complex, regulated environments. Tworzydlo advises C-suite leadership on aligning strategy, leadership, and culture.
BNP Paribas
Director
Polish executive Iza Tworzydlo is Director at BNP Paribas, bringing nearly 20 years of experience driving organizational transformation, strategic communication, and culture change in complex, regulated environments. Tworzydlo advises C-suite leadership on aligning strategy, leadership, and culture.
Marloes van Leersum
Box Apollo
Marloes van Leersum
Netherlands, United States
Box Apollo
Founder & Creative Director
Dutch entrepreneur Marloes van Leersum is the Founder of Box Apollo, a cultural venue reimagining the exhibition hall: hosting a new immersive experience every month, from art to design, nature, history, or science, paired with hospitality and a membership community for the endlessly curious. With a background in marketing, cultural economics, and entrepreneurship, van Leersum builds scalable cultural concepts blending storytelling and community.
Box Apollo
Founder & Creative Director
Dutch entrepreneur Marloes van Leersum is the Founder of Box Apollo, a cultural venue reimagining the exhibition hall: hosting a new immersive experience every month, from art to design, nature, history, or science, paired with hospitality and a membership community for the endlessly curious. With a background in marketing, cultural economics, and entrepreneurship, van Leersum builds scalable cultural concepts blending storytelling and community.
Vivek Venugopal
Visita Music
Vivek Venugopal
India
Visita Music
Composer & Producer
Indian composer Vivek Venugopal is Composer & Producer at Visita Music. Venugopal has collaborated with musicians from reputed orchestras, including the Bolshoi Theatre and Russian National Orchestra, with a catalogue of 35 opuses written for ensembles ranging from duos to nonets and chamber orchestras.
Visita Music
Composer & Producer
Indian composer Vivek Venugopal is Composer & Producer at Visita Music. Venugopal has collaborated with musicians from reputed orchestras, including the Bolshoi Theatre and Russian National Orchestra, with a catalogue of 35 opuses written for ensembles ranging from duos to nonets and chamber orchestras.
Andre Visser
Empangeni High School
Andre Visser
South Africa
Empangeni High School
Head of Music
South African educator and oboist Andre Visser is Head of Music at Empangeni High School. A University of Stellenbosch graduate, Visser has performed with the Eastern Cape Philharmonic and KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic, and previously served as Head of Winds at the Afghanistan National Institute of Music.
Empangeni High School
Head of Music
South African educator and oboist Andre Visser is Head of Music at Empangeni High School. A University of Stellenbosch graduate, Visser has performed with the Eastern Cape Philharmonic and KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic, and previously served as Head of Winds at the Afghanistan National Institute of Music.
Julie Wake
Arts Foundation of Cape Cod
Julie Wake
United States
Arts Foundation of Cape Cod
Executive Director
American nonprofit leader Julie Wake is Executive Director of the Arts Foundation of Cape Cod, leading regional grantmaking, artist support, and arts access work. Wake brings deep nonprofit experience strengthening organizational capacity and guiding legislative advocacy for the region's creative sector.
Arts Foundation of Cape Cod
Executive Director
American nonprofit leader Julie Wake is Executive Director of the Arts Foundation of Cape Cod, leading regional grantmaking, artist support, and arts access work. Wake brings deep nonprofit experience strengthening organizational capacity and guiding legislative advocacy for the region's creative sector.
Christopher Ward
Longborough Festival Opera
Christopher Ward
United Kingdom, Germany, Italy
Longborough Festival Opera
Music Director
British conductor Christopher Ward is Music Director of Longborough Festival Opera, UK, having worked as Music Director of Theater Aachen, Germany from 2018 to 2026. He leads innovative productions, recordings, and educational initiatives and works with major opera companies and orchestras globally.
Longborough Festival Opera
Music Director
British conductor Christopher Ward is Music Director of Longborough Festival Opera, UK, having worked as Music Director of Theater Aachen, Germany from 2018 to 2026. He leads innovative productions, recordings, and educational initiatives and works with major opera companies and orchestras globally.
Tanika Williams
Festival's Honoree
Tanika Williams
Festival's Honoree
Filmmaker
American filmmaker and performance artist Tanika I. Williams is a Postdoctoral Fellow at NYU Tisch, where she teaches and mentors students while exploring ancestral wisdoms of ecology, spirituality, and liberation. Educated at Eugene Lang College and Union Theological Seminary, Williams' films have screened at festivals nationally and internationally, with fellowships from BRIC, Wave Hill, and the New York Foundation for the Arts.
Yundi Xu
Global Concertist
Yundi Xu
China, France, Germany
Global Concertist
Pianist
Chinese pianist Yundi Xu is a Concert Pianist based in Paris. She has performed at venues including Konzerthaus Berlin, Salle Gaveau, the Bolshoi Theater, and Taipei's National Concert Hall. Praised for putting "technique always at the service of music," Xu is admired for her poetic sensitivity and refined artistry.
Global Concertist
Pianist
Chinese pianist Yundi Xu is a Concert Pianist based in Paris. She has performed at venues including Konzerthaus Berlin, Salle Gaveau, the Bolshoi Theater, and Taipei's National Concert Hall. Praised for putting "technique always at the service of music," Xu is admired for her poetic sensitivity and refined artistry.
Susan Yang
Vanderbilt University
Susan Yang
United States, China
Vanderbilt University
Assistant Professor of Piano
Chinese-American pianist Susan Yang is Assistant Professor of Piano at Vanderbilt University, where she directs the Community Scholars Program. Yang's work bridges artistic excellence and social impact, cultivating inclusive pathways in classical music through performance and leadership.
Vanderbilt University
Assistant Professor of Piano
Chinese-American pianist Susan Yang is Assistant Professor of Piano at Vanderbilt University, where she directs the Community Scholars Program. Yang's work bridges artistic excellence and social impact, cultivating inclusive pathways in classical music through performance and leadership.
Lucy Yao
Chromic
Lucy Yao
United States
Chromic
Creative Director
Chinese pianist Lucy Yao is Creative Director and Strategist at Chromic. Educated at the Manhattan School of Music and with additional training in design thinking at Stanford, Yao has led marketing campaigns, performances, and installations for the Smithsonian and the New York Philharmonic, integrating immersive technology and community storytelling.
Chromic
Creative Director
Chinese pianist Lucy Yao is Creative Director and Strategist at Chromic. Educated at the Manhattan School of Music and with additional training in design thinking at Stanford, Yao has led marketing campaigns, performances, and installations for the Smithsonian and the New York Philharmonic, integrating immersive technology and community storytelling.
Erin Young
Walnut Hill School for the Arts
Erin Young
United States
Walnut Hill School for the Arts
Associate Director, Educational Programs
American arts leader Erin Young is Associate Director of Educational Programs at Walnut Hill School for the Arts. A graduate of New York University's Gallatin School of Individualized Study, Young builds growth-oriented programs supporting participant agency, curiosity, and equitable access to the arts.
Walnut Hill School for the Arts
Associate Director, Educational Programs
American arts leader Erin Young is Associate Director of Educational Programs at Walnut Hill School for the Arts. A graduate of New York University's Gallatin School of Individualized Study, Young builds growth-oriented programs supporting participant agency, curiosity, and equitable access to the arts.
Demi Zalesak
Brand Stamp Marketing
Demi Zalesak
Canada
Brand Stamp Marketing
Creative Manager
Canadian producer Demi Zalesak is Creative Manager at Brand Stamp Marketing. An award-winning photographer and documentarian, Zalesak has captured over 100 on-camera interviews, blending audio, video, and movement to explore creativity, culture, and community.
Brand Stamp Marketing
Creative Manager
Canadian producer Demi Zalesak is Creative Manager at Brand Stamp Marketing. An award-winning photographer and documentarian, Zalesak has captured over 100 on-camera interviews, blending audio, video, and movement to explore creativity, culture, and community.